Hi Spudder,I've had IBS for about 17 years, since I was 17 years old. Your symptoms sound very much like what some of us with IBS experience on a daily to every-so-often basis. It's a good idea to check with a doctor, get a diagnosis and discuss your options. If it is IBS your doctor may suggest medication. This is a start. You may or may not want to take his advice, or drugs. I, for one, have coped with daily medication for most of the time I've had it, but have added lots of other things along the way (diet awareness and restrictions, stress release, therapy for the emotional side of it, Caltrate Plus, regular exercise, etc.). I now use less meds, am more aware of when it's going to hit and know what foods and drink usually cause an episode. Some days I'm in the bathroom all day, like around the time I'm having my period. This I just accept. After you've seen a doctor read this and other bulletin boards, there are lots of ways that different people deal with the same disease. Fiber diets, for example, work for some people, but they worsen my symptoms 10 times over. Don't feel that there is only one way to do it, no matter what some insist. Everyone has their own triggers, you'll find your. By the way, you may want to keep track of your emotional or stress states before or during the time an attack occurs. Stress or severe emotions may play a part, too.Good luck! If you do have it, it's totally liveable. I kayak, hike, travel and lots of other active stuff. It is possible.Jennifer
